Flying Dust programming focuses on empowerment
Community, culture and connectivity are the main themes of the youth programming offered in Flying Dust First Nation.
Youth enhancement worker Cheryl Bear runs the youth centre, located on the top floor of the Flying Dust gymnasium. The programming is a mix of regular meet-ups, activities, and special events for youth ages eight and up for both boys and girls.
Bear works on connecting youth with positive role models, such as elders, professionals, sports players, teachers, and older youth from the community.
“I plan activities that have to do with self-esteem, crafts, and empowerment,” she said. “When I do this kind of work, I try to keep in mind how it was for me when I was growing up and what I needed. I also try to take into account the differences. I didn’t have social media. Nowadays you always see bashing or bullying. When I do this kind of work, I try to talk about that issue about empowering each other, and not belittling. Letting them know there’s always somebody is important.”